Pineapple-scented sage 'Scarlet Pineapple' Salvia elegans 'Scarlet Pineapple'

Water

The Pineapple Sage should be watered deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Apply water at the base of the plant until the moisture penetrates the root zone, which generally means using about 1 to 2 gallons for an established plant, depending on its size and the weather conditions. Watering should generally take place every week in the absence of rainfall, but may be required more frequently during hot, dry periods. Consistency is key, as allowing the soil to dry out completely can stress the plant. Be sure to reduce watering frequency during the cooler months when the plant is not actively growing.

Light

Pineapple Sage thrives in full sun to partial shade. It performs best when it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot for this plant is in a garden area where it can bask in the morning sun and then receive filtered light during the harsher afternoon hours, particularly in very hot climates. Too much shade will reduce flowering and can make the plant leggy.

Temperature

Pineapple Sage prefers warm temperatures and fares well in typical garden environments within USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but thrives in conditions where the temperature ranges between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing Pineapple Sage in spots prone to frost, as it is sensitive to freezing temperatures and can be damaged or killed by prolonged exposure to cold.

Pruning

Prune Pineapple Sage to encourage bushiness and to remove any spent or dead flowers, which promotes further blooming. Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season as needed; however, a more significant cut back is best performed in early spring. Aim to prune no more than one-third of the plant at a time to avoid shocking it. Removing old growth can also help rejuvenate the plant and maintain its attractive shape.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Pineapple Sage requires well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand can promote good drainage and fertility. Amend the soil with organic matter to ensure adequate nutrient levels for optimal growth.

Repotting

Pineapple Sage should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one to allow for continued growth and root health.

Humidity & Misting

Pineapple Sage thrives in moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to lower humidity environments. Aim for a humidity level between 40% and 60% to satisfy this plant's needs without special measures.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright indirect light and air circulation for Pineapple Sage.

• Outdoor

  Place Pineapple Sage in full sun to partial shade and protect from frost.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Scarlet Pineapple Sage begins its life cycle with seed germination, occurring in warm, moist soil conditions, typically in spring or early summer. After germination, the seedlings develop into juvenile plants with characteristic aromatic and fuzzy leaves. As the plants mature, they enter the vegetative stage, focusing on growth and leaf production. During the flowering stage, Scarlet Pineapple Sage produces vibrant red, tubular flowers that attract pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies, usually from late summer to early frost. After pollination, the plant sets seeds that mature and are dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. In cold climates, Scarlet Pineapple Sage may die back in winter but can resprout from the roots or self-seed if conditions are favorable in the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Salvia elegans 'Scarlet Pineapple', commonly known as Pineapple Sage, is through stem cuttings. This is typically done in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. A healthy, non-flowering stem is chosen and a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) is made. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to increase the chances of successful root development. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist but not waterlogged. To maintain high humidity, a plastic bag or a container can be placed over the cutting. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new Pineapple Sage plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the garden.